President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi meets with Qatari Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Doha. Egyptian Presidency
The agreement follows Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi's high-profile official visit to Doha as part of a two-leg Gulf tour that also includes Kuwait.
“The two sides affirmed their commitment to supporting the economic partnership between the two countries. They agreed to work towards a package of direct Qatari investments totaling $7.5 billion, to be implemented over the next phase,” read the statement.
However, the statement did not provide further details about the package.
It highlighted that the move reflects the longstanding relationship between the two countries and contributes to achieving sustainable economic development that serves the interests of both brotherly peoples.
According to the statement, President El-Sisi's visit aimed at strengthening the historical ties between both nations, reflecting their mutual commitment to enhancing consultation and coordination on various levels.
It added that President El-Sisi and Sheikh Tamim discussed many issues in a spirit of fraternity, mutual understanding, and trust.
“Both sides explored ways to enhance cooperation across various fields to serve common interests and open new horizons for integration and partnership,” it read.
They especially highlighted the importance of boosting economic cooperation and joint efforts to expand investment and trade exchange between their countries.
Furthermore, the two leaders praised the progress made in bilateral relations in recent years, stressing the importance of building on these achievements to advance their ties into a secure, stable, and prosperous future.
Qatar also affirmed its support for Khaled El-Enany, the Egyptian candidate for the UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) director-general post, in recognition of his academic contributions.
Gaza ceasefire efforts
The statement expressed Egypt and Qatar’s deep concern over the ongoing Israeli escalation in Gaza, stressing the importance of continuing joint efforts to achieve an immediate and sustainable ceasefire.
It also emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian aid to enter Gaza, supporting reconstruction efforts, and alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people.
Additionally, both leaders called for more regional and international de-escalating efforts, especially highlighting the mediation efforts led by Egypt and Qatar in coordination with the US to restore the ceasefire and end the war in Gaza.
Egypt and Qatar also condemned any attempts to undermine negotiations or target mediators, describing such acts as obstructive to mediation efforts.
They further reiterated their full support for the Egyptian plan for Gaza reconstruction. They anticipated the upcoming Cairo conference, which will be held in cooperation with regional and international partners, to coordinate humanitarian and development initiatives for Gaza.
The statement highlighted the importance of this conference, which will discuss ways to improve living conditions for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
Egypt and Qatar also affirmed their support for Palestinian national reconciliation efforts, stressing the importance of Palestinian unity in empowering national institutions and fulfilling the Palestinian people's aspirations.
In addition, they articulated their unwavering support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, particularly establishing an independent state along the 4 June 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Middle East talks
The statement also expressed grave concern over the continued armed conflict in Sudan.
Both countries urged an immediate halt to military operations and a return to inclusive national dialogue to end the suffering of the Sudanese people.
They also emphasized their full support for Sudan’s unity and sovereignty and all regional and international initiatives to end the conflict.
Egypt and Qatar also welcomed the current indirect negotiations between the US and Iran, expressing their support for all peaceful efforts to reduce tensions and enhance regional security and stability.
Moreover, they praised Oman's diplomatic efforts in these negotiations.
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